Andrea is a musician, poet, and healing arts practitioner from South Louisiana. She has been a part of Lafayette’s music community for the past twenty-five years through performances with various ensembles in both classical and traditional music and as a music educator. She currently teaches piano and violin in her private studio and at the Acadiana Symphony Conservatory of Music.
Andrea has also worked for the past twenty years in the healing arts where she was trained as a massage therapist, yoga instructor, labor doula, reiki master practitioner, and herbalist. In 2020, Andrea decided to return to school for a degree in Creative Writing and will graduate from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette in May 2024. Andrea hopes to merge her interests in traditional healing work with the work she is pursuing as a musician and poet as she explores themes of place, ecology, and healing.
Artist Statement
Most of my creative work emerges from the memory of growing up in South Louisiana and reflecting on my family home along the bayou in Vermillion Parish. My poetry is steeped in Louisiana landscapes and illuminates the ways in which patriarchal forces have contributed to oppression, inequality, and degradation of natural resources. I am interested in exploring themes of place, ecology, grief, and generational healing.
Who makes up your art circle?
Everyone in my life makes up my art circle! Definitely my fellow musicians, teachers, students, artists, writers, gardeners, and healers. My three boys, my partner, and my parents are a huge part of that. I’m so fortunate to be steeped in such a creatively rich community!
How do you expand your art circle?
Besides participating in events and classes that are offered throughout the community, I think the best way that I expand my art circle is by stepping out of my comfort zone and sharing the work– whether it’s a piece of music, a new poem, or a thoughtfully prepared meal. There’s something about that kind of vulnerability that draws artists together and creates profound connections.
What value do you see in having a creative community?
It is everything! Truly essential. A supportive community provides a safe space for individuals to explore ideas, brings vitality to a community, and generates creative thought. Being a part of such a vibrantly creative community has enriched my life beyond measure.
How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?
This one is a tough one to answer. I haven’t contributed tangibly in terms of publications or completed bodies of work yet. So, for the moment, I would have to say that my artistic approach has been rooted largely in presence. When I am present with my work, it is meaningful. When I offer presence to my students, they flourish. When I show up for other artists in my community, they feel seen and appreciated. This contributes in a way that bolsters a creative community and makes space for so much possibility and connection. Sometimes, simply showing up and offering presence is the most powerful contribution we can make.
Our weekly Art Circle series profiles artists throughout the community and is sponsored in part by Lafayette Visitor Enterprise Fund managed by Lafayette Travel
